Introduction

Etymotic was one of the first brands to launch high-end in-ears about 25 years ago. Today, the company has a small, but distinguished line-up of often overlooked in-ears. Their hf5 was solid, but never really won over the public even though it delivered a good experience. Today, we take a look at their new ER4 models, which should mark Etymotic's return to the center stage.

Etymotic Research's background in measurement devices is seen in their approach to in-ears as well. Both the new XR and SR feature frequency response curves that by Etymotic's standard are regarded as neutral (close to flat if you did a diffuse field response compensation). The XR deviates the most due to its slightly elevated bass, while still being close. The XR has a linearly increasing bass from around 300 Hz, whereas the SR continues flatter downwards.

Specifications

Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 16 kHz

Transducer: High performance, balanced armature micro-driver

Passive Noise Attenuation: 35-42 dB

Impedance @ 1 kHz: 45 Ohms

Sensitivity @ 1 kHz SPL at 0.1 V: 98 dB

Maximum Output SPL: 122 dB

Cable: 5 ft detachable / 152 cm

User Replaceable ACCU-filters: Yes

2 year warranty

Custom-fit option available

Etymotic Research has posted these frequency response curves measured at the ear drum for the two new ER4 models. The only noticeable difference between the two is the bass response. Both are pretty close to the original ER4S in-ear, which set the benchmark 25 years ago and held it for almost 20 years in terms of precision.